Constructive Conflict

"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another" (Psalm 27:17)(NIV).

We all want to be sharp, but few of us want to be sharpened. Sharpening usually requires conflict and discomfort. It brings out our insecurities, our self-doubts--if we let it. It strains our relationships, unless we receive it with humility.

Several years ago, I was aware of a problem in a close friend's life. He couldn't see it. But it was a big problem. I was scared to talk to him about it. Was it my business? Was it my place? Would he ever talk to me again? I tried to run from telling him.

But the Holy Spirit was relentless. About every other day for a year, I thought about my friend and his situation. Finally, I couldn't stand it. I called him. After I had said my peace, my friend was silent for what felt like an eternity. And then he said, "Wow. You must really love me to tell me something like that." When I made the call, I was aware that I was risking our friendship to be obedient to God. And I thanked God for my friend's response.

Would I have responded the same way, if I were the one who had received the call? Would you have? I hope so. Sharpening is constructive conflict spurred on by sacrificial love. I pray that God will give us the humility to recognize His hand in sharpening us through our true friendships.